MidCoast community identify what they value most about open spaces

MidCoast Council’s first open space strategy received feedback from 1,600 community members, identifying what they most value about open spaces.

MidCoast Council is a local government area located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales.

People talked to MidCoast staff in June and July at pop-ups at Tuncurry, Old Bar, Hallidays Point, Harrington, Gloucester, Wingham, Tea Gardens, Taree and Nabiac. Workshops were held in November at Bulahdelah, Forster, Gloucester, Harrington, Hawks Nest, Pacific Palms, Stroud and Taree.

Children were also encouraged to provide input through activities at the workshops.

Council Executive Manager of Community Spaces, Dan Aldridge advised “we know MidCoast residents love the great outdoors and the beautiful natural assets of our region.

“Both locals and visitors said they want better connected green space, more accessible footpaths and cycleways, more flexible open space, and more activities for young children and teenagers.

“People told us that they want open spaces that encourage people with a range of abilities and ages to interact with each other, safely, and without it costing too much.”

A full engagement outcomes report along with the draft Strategy will go on public exhibition around mid-2023.

“We’ve heard from people of all ages on the MidCoast. We want to thank everyone for getting involved,” said Aldridge.

“The community has identified what to plan, program, prioritise and fund over the next 10-15 years in our parks, gardens, walk and cycleways, sports fields, playgrounds, reserves and other public spaces.

“Now we’ll put those ideas into the draft Open Spaces and Recreation Strategy which is being prepared now.”

An independent randomised telephone survey was undertaken earlier in the year. People could also provide feedback online via a survey, mapping tool and a visioning wall.

The draft strategy will be available for the community to review and have a final say before adoption next year.